Hat-trick for Ben

CUESTARS Under-21 Bronze Tour player Ben Taylor-Jenkins has claimed his third school-holiday title at Chandlers Ford Snooker Club.

The 13-year-old ended the ten-day Easter Cup ahead of runner-up Isaac Church.

An impressive total of 11 new high breaks were recorded over the holiday period. Gold player Ryan Spratt topped the list with a 102, his first century.

Fellow Gold player Asten Sahota chalked up the best cricket break of 160 and the highest billiards break of 31. And 15 levels of the Cuestars Academy were passed

Next up is the Ken Jones May Half-Term Cup (May 26-30) followed by the marathon 30-day Rotary Summer Cup (July 23-September 2).

These handicapped school-holiday competitions, which are run by WPBSA coach Tim Dunkley, are attracting record numbers.

They – and the Saturday morning junior leagues – are designed to prepare players for regional, national and international competition. Look at the number of England players that have graduated from this set-up.

Over the years, they have proved to be a breeding ground for the Bronze Tour. Why? Because the youngsters are taught the rules, etiquette and game management required to compete on the regional circuit. And they are playing competitive snooker every day. Players who are used to regular competition, coupled with a half-decent technique, generally do better on the Bronze Tour. It’s not rocket science.

For more information or advice about junior snooker and the correct pathways to follow, ring the club on 02380 254834 or email [email protected].